Best Parks in the Berkshires

One of of the most unique features of the Berkshires is the abundance of parks for all kinds of recreation and general enjoyment. In fact, the majority of the land preserved in state parks is in western Massachusetts. Be aware that some of these state parks charge a fee, but most parks in general are free. The Berkshire Natural Resources Council (BNRC) steward some beautiful natural areas throughout the region. The Trustees of Reservations also holds some breathtaking properties under their oversight. This is a review of some of the favorite parks to visit.

You can tour the cobbles, trees and understory plants, and river, on the Ledges Trail, which also passes two small caves kids love to explore. You can also trek through open fields, transitional forest, and freshwater marshes with beaver ponds along the Cobble's other trails. Don't forget to stop in to the natural history museum and visitor center either before or after your visit. And, to mix your natural history with some cultural history, follow the trail that leads to the nearby historic Ashley House, from where enslaved African American Mum Bett Freeman sued for her freedom, helping to end slavery in Massachusetts.

Insider's Tip: There are five miles of trails, moderate hiking. Some may find the hike to the Hurlburt's Hill summit strenuous. Check out the ferns-- this site has one of North America’s greatest diversities of fern species. Also, be sure to appreciate the old growth cottonwood-- one of the largest Cottonwood trees in the state. It’s this amazing diversity that led to the Cobble’s designation as a National Natural Landmark in 1971.

Bash Bish Falls is the highest single-drop waterfall in the state. Take a hike and enjoy a picnic on the rocks. Explore the neighboring wilderness at Mt. Washington State Park, or cross the border into New York’s Taconic State Park. Parking is free at the designated lot near the trailhead. There is no on-road parking available. One of the best ways to experience the beauty of Bash Bish is a hike. Start at the Upper Falls parking lot for a steep climb down along the falls, or take it all in from the lower trails.

Insider's Tip: If you are looking for a more mellow hike, try the trail coming in from the New York side of the park. The other trail is short but very steep. It all downhill from the parking lot, which may be tough for some knees especially after a long drive.

This 12,000 acre forest is the perfect place to visit no matter the season. Swim, boat, or fish in Benedict Pond. In the winter, you can cross-country ski and snowmobile. If you come during the warmer months, there is a substantial fee for out-of-state visitors and a lesser fee for Massachusetts residents. There is good reason to still visit this park. First, it is massive and has great trails including the Appalachian Trail which runs through the area. It also has Benedict pond which is a beautiful mountain pond and is particularly beautiful in autumn.

Insider's Tip: If you have a mountain bike, bring your bike. If you have skis, bring your skis. If you have a canoe, bring it. This area is fantastic for all kinds of outdoor recreation!

Campbell Falls State Park Reserve was a gift to the State of Connecticut and the Commonwealth of Massachusetts from the White Memorial Foundation of Litchfield Connecticut. The Whiting River, rising in Massachusetts falls nearly 100 feet here before entering Connecticut. The park was placed under protection of the two states in 1923 and special laws were passed in 1924 to authorize the cooperation in care and maintenance of the park. The easiest way to access Campbell Falls Parking is to park along Campbell Falls Road and walk 0.14 miles down the trail. If you start there however, you will miss a casual walk through a very nice forest, and some interesting rocks.

Insider's Tip: The waterfalls are a great spot to picnic so we recommend packing a lunch and taking in this incredible water feature. Be sure to leave no trace of your presence here including any scrap food as it has a detrimental effect on wildlife.

Kennedy Park is a multi use area right in the middle of downtown Lenox. Don't be fooled by its centrality though as it has a deep woods look and feel to it, making it a great hike if you have a limited amount of time. Expect to see hikers, skiers, dogs, mountain bikers and horses. Volunteers perform many hours of trail maintenance as well as grooming the trails in winter. Parking is available at the Church on the Hill except during Sunday services and weddings. Parking is also available at the West Dugway Road entrance. Additional parking is located at the Department of Public Works, 275 Main Street.

Insider's Tip: Because they are maintained so well, these trails are perfect for cross-country skiing and mountain biking and are worth exploring even by foot. Be sure to bring your binoculars if you head on a hike here in the early morning or evening as this area sees a lot of bird life.

Mohawk Trail State Forest is one of the wildest areas in Massachusetts. It covers 6,000 acres of mountain ridges, gorges, and woods along the Deerfield River, and it is home to a variety of plant and animal life. If you're interested in camping, there are 47 wooded campsites available seasonally, and 6 log cabins available year-round. Campsites are available mid-May through mid-October. Cabins are available year round. Reservations are required for the cabins.

Insider's Tip: Be sure to get a trail map from the greeter. The trails here are extensive and can be confusing if you are unfamiliar with the general terrain.

From the 1,642-foot summit of Squaw Peak, you’ll enjoy views as far north as Mount Greylock, near the Vermont border, and, in the western distance, the Catskills of New York. Hawks (and even the occasional bald eagle) soar gracefully above the serene Housatonic River Valley spreading below. Remember, you’ll be “earning” the spectacular views offered from the higher reaches and summit, so a basic level of fitness is required to handle the 720-foot elevation gain. Wear sturdy shoes and bring plenty of water. Understand that wet weather can make for some slippery footing. Be especially cautious on the ledges; keep an eye on children and pets.

Insider's Tip: This mountain can get very crowded so if you are planning a summer hike and are looking for solitude, you may want to consider some of the other options.

This state park is home to the tallest peak in the Taconics and has a lot to explore including waterfalls at Race Brook Falls. This is a great spot to go if you have more time on your hands and are feeling like an adventure. There is a truly wild quality to the park. If you know where and how to look, you can explore some old growth pitch pine and scrub oak. It is also home to fresh water ponds and brooks.

Insider's Tip: Don't miss Race Brook Falls and be sure to wear proper footwear. The trail can be a little dicey in spots.

At 3,491 feet, Mount Greylock is the highest point in Massachusetts. From its peak on a clear day, you can see as far as 90 miles away. This is one of the great areas of the North County of the Berkshires. If you are feeling lazy buy still want the view, you can drive to the summit. This is wonderful for some while for others such as those hiking to summit, you should not be surprised to find a paved lot at the top of your hike. The trails are beautiful though, long and steep in parts, especially the Thunderbolt Trail.

Insider's Tip: Plan your visit to the park right and coordinate a visit to Mass MoCA. This makes for a great day trip with nature and culture.

Set amidst more than 1,000 lush acres in the Berkshires right near Tanglewood, Pleasant Valley’s varied trails wind through forests, meadows, wetlands, and along the slopes of Lenox Mountain, making this site an excellent location for easy-to-strenuous hiking. While exploring, there’s a good chance you will see evidence of the sanctuary’s most visible wildlife resident, the beaver, via dams, dens, or lodges. There is a wonderful visitor's center and an education program run by Mass Audubon who run the property.

Insider's Tip: The trails here are very well maintained. However, in winter this spot makes for some great snowshoeing. Be sure to stop in the visitor's center. It's a great resource and you may even organize an educational adventure by canoe or get snowshoes for your visit.

A geologic wonder, the Cobble (possibly derived from a German word for “rocks”) was born from massive tectonic movements that shifted ancient strata, leaving an exposed underbelly of rock atop a high ridge. Today, you can follow a loop trail past rugged ledges to the summit, which emerges at a wildflower-festooned field – a perfect spot for a picnic. There are two miles of trails, including a section of the Appalachian Trail, pass over the twin knobs of Tyringham Cobble offering spectacular views of the valley. Wildflowers, blackberries, blueberries, and wild strawberries grow in clearings and open meadows.

Insider's Tip: While hiking, keep an eye out for an unusually shaped rock formation known as Rabbit Rock. Hop Brook, a favorite fishing stream of President Grover Cleveland, meanders along the northern edge of the reservation on its way west to the Housatonic River.

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Nicholas Tuff is a white-water kayaker, avid hiker, environmental educator and outdoor enthusiast living in western Massachusetts. He also enjoys the folk traditions of the region in particular the contradancing and shape note singing traditions